Sterling vs Swift vs Bailey

[John_374456343]

Hi All

We are on the verge of buying our first van. Having spent some time looking at layouts we are almost (97.5%) sure of we want, L shaped front lounge and rear dinette. As far as I can tell so far my options are Sterling Eccles Amethyst (2006 model not the current one), Swift Charisma or Challenger 490 (similar vintage) or a Bailey Pageant Provence (2008). There is one of all 3 for sale relatively close by.

Would anyone like to share any experiences of these vans and, difficult question I know, which is likely to have the best build quality?

Many thanks

John

 

[Dustydog]

John

Nothing in it really but remember the Challenger is the more upgrade model than the Charisma.

What warranty will be transferred to you?

Do your own Scoring matrix, eg bed comfort layouts extras sizes etc

Dealer reputation is crucial. The dealer will make or break your purchase.

Good luck

Cheers

Dustydog

 

[Jennifer2]

Swift Charisma = Sterling Europa level.

Swift Challenger = Sterling Eccles

Nothing to choose between them apart from graphics, upholstery and "woodwork" colours.

Possibly a little heavier than a Bailey.

 

[dexterlevi]

We have owned a Baily Pageant and a Swift Charism in the last 5 years. Both served us well for different reasons.

Out of the two I found the quality of the Swift slightly better than the Baily.I have since stayed with Swift but would,nt rule out a Baily again in the future.

When I asked my local dealer question on Baily verses Swift, he also said he felt thet the finished spec on the Swift was slightly better.

Saying that I am having my front panel replaced under warranty next month due to cracking.I have to say Swift were quick to accept my warranty claim and authorise my dealer get on with it.

 

[DeliDave]

W ehad a sterling Jewel and two Indianas,took 11 weeks to get a new fabric door which we had to pay for ,had loads of trouble.The two Indianas have been pretty good,mainly the usual lock/pump /toilet problems that all manufacturers have,our next van is likely to be a California,another Bailey.Most parts have arrived within a few days,(see post today about wheel badge),suppliers like Hartals and whale have dealt quickly with problems through contacts on here.Towel rail broke and no quibbles,a week later new towel rail.To be fair had Swift 5 years ago,may be lots better now but sadly once bitten etc.Also you get a lot for your money with Bailey

 

[Mel]

Hi, we have a challenger 490 with a twin dinette. The flexibility of the layout really suits us and we generally like the style of it. Build quality has been oK in all minor respects but it soaks up damp like a sponge. It is only 2 years old: First service 40% damp under side window. 2nd service 50% damp under the rear window. We will get shot before the damp warranty runs out, if not sooner. This may be a one off problem, but not sure that it will be a Swift next time.

mel

 

[DeliDave]

that reminds me that over the winter our Jewel had condensation everywhere inside,had to remove all cushions and the (heavy) mattress to prevent mildew,the Indianas have had none even over last really cold winter,makes you think.Also get on roof three or four times a year to clean and polish roof with no ill effects as yet,P.S.dont work for Bailey

 

[Jo-AnneFairway5402010]

i had 2 faulty sterlings both went back and now own a 2008 wyoming love it no problems.

i love the L shaped lounge but when we went and sat in it your head sort of bent forward and we couldnt get comphy and chill out. each to there own just make sure your happy with the comfort of the L shaped lounge.

jo

 

[John_374456343]

Hello All

Many thanks for your informative answers. This afternoon we went to look at the Bailey, and ....subject to the bank manager's approval, we will soon be the proud owners of our 1st caravan, yeaaaah!!!!

Now have to do the boring bits like insurance etc.

Many thanks again

John

 

[Dustydog]

Well done John

Be under no illusion. The Insurance is not the boring bit but the second most important purchase next to the caravan.

Don't be lulled by cheap premiums. Just make sure you understand all the special conditions and warranties imposed by the insurer. Ensure you stick rigidly to all their security requirements.

Personally I have stuck with the Caravan Club Scheme for years . Only on the basis I know they are more customer driven than most, but not the cheapest.

Don't forget to make sure the dealer shows you how everything works at the handover, including water and electrics.

Enjoy.

Cheers

Dustydog

 

[Jo-AnneFairway5402010]

john, what model of bailey did you go for?. what dealer did you use?.

jo

 

[John_374456343]

Hi Jo

We got a Pageant Provence, 2008, L shaped lounge, from Read in Blackburn. We were treated well and think we got a fair deal. We are collecting on Friday 31st and are currently looking at the various bits we need to get, getting interested in waste water containers etc.

We're looking to book for a weekend away the following weekend to have a try out at living in the van somewhere in North East Wales, Cheshire way so we don't need to tow too far to start off with.

Cheers

John